Radiography

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2007 says, “Radiographers produce x-ray images of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. They prepare patients for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, removing articles such as jewelry, through which x rays cannot pass, and positioning patients so that the parts of the body can be appropriately radiographed. To prevent unnecessary radiation exposure, technologists surround the exposed area with radiation protection devices, such as lead shields, or limit the size of the x-ray beam.

Radiographers position radiographic equipment at the correct angle and height over the appropriate area of a patient’s body. Using instruments similar to a measuring tape, technologists may measure the thickness of the section to be radiographed and set controls on the machine to produce radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrast. They place the x-ray cassettes under the part of the patient’s body to be examined and make the exposure. They develop or process the images.

For fluoroscopic exams, radiographers prepare a solution of contrast medium for the patient to drink, allowing the radiologist, a physician who interprets images, to see soft tissues in the body. Radiologic technologists must follow physicians ’orders precisely and conform to regulations concerning use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and coworkers from unnecessary exposure. In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, radiologic technologists keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. They may also prepare work schedules, evaluate equipment purchases, or manage a radiology department.”

Working Conditions

Most full-time radiologic technologists work about 40 hours a week; they may have evening, weekend, or on-call hours.Physical stamina is important, because technologists are on their feet for long periods and may lift or turn disabled patients. They work at diagnostic machines but may also do some procedures at patients’ bedsides. Some radiologic technologists travel to patients in large vans equipped with sophisticated diagnostic equipment. Although potential radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they are minimized by the use of lead aprons, gloves, and other shielding devices, as well as by instruments monitoring radiation exposure. Technologists wear badges measuring radiation levels in the radiation area, and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.

Employment

Radiologic technologists held about 196,000 jobs in 2006. More than half of all jobs were in hospitals. Most of the rest are in physicians’ offices and clinics, including diagnostic imaging centers; and outpatient care centers.

Salary

Median annual earnings of radiologic technologists were $48,170 in 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $39,840 and $57,940. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,750, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $68,920. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of radiologic technologists in 2006 were:

• Medical and diagnostic laboratories $51,280
• Hospitals 48,830
• Offices and clinics of medical doctors 45,500

Certification

Graduates of the HCCS Radiography Program may apply to take the ARRT certification exam. To practice in Texas, radiographers must also hold a certificate from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Any individual with a previous felony conviction should contact the ARRT for a Pre-Certification Application at (651) 687-0048 Ethics Division concerning eligibility requirements.

The HCC Coleman College Radiography Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182. Phone: 312-704-5300. www.jrcert.org or email us at mail@jrcert.org.

Houston Community College (HCC) is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), the regional accrediting body. www.sacscoc.org.

This information is published on the JRCERT website at www.jrcert.org

Program Effectiveness 2014–2018

 *Completion rate averages are based on the number of students who begin
the program and remain in the first semester past the last day to drop. 

Consistent with the mission of Houston Community College, the faculty of the Radiography Program is committed to providing quality instruction to educate competent entry level radiographers to meet the needs of the ever changing, diverse, and multi-cultural health care community. The Program strives to develop within all students, an appreciation and desire for the continued quest for knowledge, lifelong learning, integrity and community-mindedness.

Maintain outstanding clinical performance and competency.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to accurately position the patient
• Students will apply appropriate radiation safety measures
• Students will demonstrate radiographic equipment operation skills
• Student will demonstrate patient care skills

Provide an education that demonstrates professionalism and cultural awareness.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will recognize cross cultural differences and their impact on patient     
• Students will demonstrate professionalism
• Students will demonstrate professionalism through personal grooming
• Graduates will continue their education in another post primary certification or BS degree

Practice effective communication skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will effectively communicate with healthcare professionals
• Students will demonstrate effective communication skills with patients
• Students will demonstrate effective oral communication skills

Develop problem solving capabilities and critical thinking skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate improvement in critical thinking skills upon graduation

The Computed Tomography program is a one-semester evening program leading to an Enhanced Skills Certificate (ESC) or, in some cases, Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Courses have both theory and a competency-based clinical component. All CT courses must be enrolled in concurrently. Those who are accepted into the program will be required to pay a liability insurance fee, which protects the student against losses resulting from malpractice claims. Accepted students must also pay a radiation monitoring badge fee. The badge is required in all clinical education courses.

2018 Third-Party Licensure/Certification Exam Results
Occupational licensure and/or certification pass rates on first attempt reported by calendar year (Jan. 1 – Dec. 31).
Results for the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 calendar years are provided for comparison.

There are 3,169 Radiographers employed in the Greater Houston Area. This number is expected to increase by 16.0% over the next four years.

• The estimated annual job openings is 195 jobs a year.
• Median Wages - $26.29 hourly, $55,000 annually